Coffee intake causes high blood pressure – Expert

Dr. Jacob Nwachukwu, the President of the Blood Pressure Control Foundation Nigeria, says coffee intake could trigger high blood pressure.
Nwachukwu told the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Thursday that caffeine could cause an increase in adrenaline, which elevates the blood pressure.
He said although there was no conclusive evidence yet to prove it, but the intake of coffee could be predisposing factor for some people.
He said: “Caffeine can cause a short, but dramatic increase in your blood pressure, even if you don’t have high blood pressure.
“It is unclear what causes this hike in blood pressure.
“Hypertension is when there is consistent abnormal blood pressure.
“Individuals need to measure everyday or over a period of time to be sure the blood pressure is normal.”
Nweachukwu said the normal blood pressure is suppose to be less than 140/90, but when its above then one need to seek medical help.
Nwachukwu said any stimulant can increase the heart beat and could lead to high blood pressure for some people, adding it could vary from person to person.
He said coffee alone could not be the predisposing factor.
He said individuals need to study his or herself and use the proper digital high blood pressure machine by the guidance of a doctor.
Nwachukwu said excitement and emotional outburst could elevate some people’s blood pressure.
He said: “High blood pressure is called the ‘silent killer’ because people often have no symptoms, yet it can lead to some serious and sometimes even fatal conditions.
“The exact causes of high blood pressure are not known, but several factors and conditions may play a role in its development such as smoking, overweight or obesity as well as lack of physical activity.
“Too much salt in the diet, too much alcohol consumption, stress, old age, genetics and family history of high blood pressure.
“Others are chronic kidney disease, adrenal, thyroid and sleep disorders.”
Nwachukwu advised Nigerians to know their blood pressure correctly to avoid sudden death.
NAN.